Short stories about the lives of the residents of Camden Corners. A village in Upstate New York at the beginning of the 20th Century. You will meet old friends time and again and new friends and neighbors with each story. Share the many tales of love, romance, family and friends as well as a few mysteries thrown in for good measure.
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Monday, December 31, 2012

Julianna had never been happier. Rick, the love of her
life, was retired from his reporting job that kept him away from home
several months out of the year. Her daughters were both happily
married and keeping her well supplied with grandchildren. Her best
friend lived next door to her and she was living in her favorite
town, Camden Corners.

Julianna was originally from California, at least she
thought she was. Her only memories of childhood were being placed in
one foster home after another. She was one of the lucky ones, her
families were all kind to her. She had heard horror stories through
the years about children who had been abused by families trusted with
their care.

At eighteen, Julianna was on her own. She knew she
wanted to continue her education and applied for a job as a live-in
nanny to the daughter of the popular movie star, Melanie Fairchild.
She was pleasantly surprised when she discovered what a kind person
Miss Fairchild was. Julianna didn't realize it at the time, but she
was one of over fifty people interviewed for the job. Melanie was
very particular about the people who watched over her daughter while
she was away. Julianna and Melanie became fast friends. Julianna
loved two year old Samantha and the little girl loved her too.
Melanie, Julianna and Samantha flew to Camden Corners for the grand
opening of The Merryweather Resort. Both women found love while in
the quaint village. Julianna married journalist Rick Marino who had
accepted a job with a large newspaper in Los Angeles. After 20 years
and many separations due to his work, Rick retired to write a novel.
Because they both loved Camden Corners, they moved across the country
to Rick's childhood home.

Julianna, an accomplished photographer, reopened the art
gallery originated by Jack Mackenzie in the early 1900s. She invited
amateur artists to display their works in her gallery. This
particular weekend, The Merryweather was sponsoring an exhibit of
local artists. As Julianna directed the movers she had hired to
transport the artwork, she walked by the display of photographs of
the residents of Camden Corners almost one hundred years ago. She
turned to look directly into the faces of Dahlia and Hyacinth Bloom
Hightower. Julianna had a sense that they were warning her of
impending peril. She brushed off the momentary feeling, but felt an
unease the rest of the day.

The following Monday morning, Julianna was chatting on
the telephone with her daughter, Lacey McCoy. She was hearing all
about the family's trip to the zoo in Greensboro the day before.
Sammy, who had won everybody's heart, was delighted to show his
brother all the animals. At only four months old, Reilly was showing
signs of hero worship for his older brother.

The doorbell rang. “Someone is at the door dear. I
will call you later. Give the boys a hug from me.” Julianna
opened the door to a woman her age standing there with a smile on her
face.

“Julianna! I've finally found you.”

Julianna looked at the woman who was a stranger to her.
“Do I know you?” she asked.

“It's Yolanda, your twin sister.”

Julianna looked at the woman again. There was a slight
resemblance. This woman had bright red hair that obviously came from
a bottle. Their eyes were the same color and the shape of their
faces. Julianna had long ago given up hope of finding her birth
family. Was it possible this stranger was her sister and a twin
sister at that?

“Please, come in,” she said.

Yolanda walked through the front door. Without seeming
obvious, she looked around the room. Julianna made out alright in
life for a kid with no parents, she thought to herself.

“Yolanda, how do you know we are related? I could
never find any information about where I came from or who my folks
were. I gave up over thirty years ago.”

“It is a very sad story, Julianna. Our mama was not
well after giving birth to us. She tried her best, she worked nights
just to put food on the table. Her mother watched over us while Mama
was away. You see her beloved husband, and our dear father was
killed in a terrible accident when we were only a few months old.
Mother did her best to carry on for our sakes, but when our
grandmother took sick and died too, it was too much for her. She
collapsed on the way home from work one morning. The authorities
were called and we were wrenched from our home. We were only two
years old. We were separated and both placed in different foster
homes. Eventually, Mother regained her strength. She was able to
find me, but the trail turned cold when she attempted to locate you.
The poor sainted woman has never given up looking for you in all
these years.”

Rick walked into the room. He heard the end of
Yolanda's story and was skeptical. He introduced himself to the
visitor. This woman was nothing like Julianna. He could see the
coldness in her eyes. Being a journalist, he was accustomed to
asking the difficult questions. He would have to be careful though,
he knew Julianna had longed for any information she could find about
her family.

Yolanda could see the doubt on Rick's face. I'm going
to have to turn on the waterworks, she thought and proceeded to do
just that.

“Yolanda, don't cry. We will figure this out. Tell
me about our mother.”

Through sobs, Yolanda told of the long suffering woman's
illness that forced her to be bedridden. “The doctors have said
it is close to her time. She made me promise I would look for you.
Her dying wish is that she is reunited with her daughter after all
these years.”

“If your mother had attempted to find Julianna and
wasn't able too, how were you able to locate her?”

“Rick, may I call you Rick?” she said whimpering.
“I know you will think I'm a fool, but you see I was desperate.
I'm afraid I sought the services of a psychic. I paid her $1,000,
money I didn't have, but it was worth every penny because she led me
to my dear sister.”

Rick was ready to show the woman the door, but he could
see the look on Julianna's face. She wanted to believe the story
even though her instincts told her not to.

“Yolanda, where are my manners? May I get you a cup
of coffee or tea?”

“I'm a little parched dear, I wouldn't mind a tiny bit
of bourbon if you have it.”

It was only 10:00 in the morning. Rick got up to pour
her a light drink even more convinced she was a con artist.

Before Julianna could offer her a room in their home,
Rick spoke up. “Don't be silly, we have a perfectly fine hotel in
Camden Corners. You may stay at The Merryweather, don't worry about
the cost, we will take care of your bill for the night.”

Yolanda knew she wasn't putting anything over on Rick.
She probably shouldn't have asked for a drink but she needed it to
calm her nerves. She would have to work fast on Julianna before her
husband convinced her Yolanda was only after her money.

The truth was, Yolanda was indeed related to Julianna.
They were cousins. Their fathers were brothers. Yolanda's mother,
Gladys, married unsuspecting Harry Colby. Harry was a goodhearted
man who fell for a pretty face some fifty years ago. Harry and his
brother Henry were twins. Henry protected Harry through his growing
up years. The day Gladys came into his life, was the end of the
relationship. Gladys made sure Henry was out of his brother's life
since she was in a better position to manipulate Harry without him.
Henry married Rosemary, the complete opposite of Gladys. The women
gave birth to baby girls within months of each other. When Julianna
was less than a year old, her parents were killed in an automobile
accident leaving her alone in the world except for Harry. Harry
wanted to adopt Julianna, but Gladys insisted there was no room in
their lives for the child. Gladys pinned the name Julianna Collins,
a fictitious name, to the child's blanket and left her on the
doorstep of an orphanage. She persuaded Harry to sign papers giving
up all claims to the child and the deed to Henry's property. Guilt
and despair over his brother's death and the treatment of his niece
were too much for Harry's heart. He died just two months later
leaving his widow with a child and no life insurance, only the two
properties the brothers owned.

Julianna was adopted by a childless couple who
discovered just before the adoption became final that they were
indeed going to have a child of their own. They returned Julianna to
the orphanage saying they were afraid they wouldn't be able to love
her the way they would love their own flesh and blood. She was
eventually sent to live in a foster home. She had a total of five
foster families. Julianna was a delightful child, but none of the
families she lived with were in a financial position to adopt her as
their own.

Gladys lost track of Julianna after the first few years.
She was all but forgotten until the day she picked up a tabloid
magazine that was left on the bus. Gladys had always liked Melanie
Fairchild movies. She noticed an article telling of Melanie's
retirement several years before. The article mentioned and showed a
picture of Julianna Collins Marino, a good friend and nanny to
Melanie's daughter. Gladys knew right away that Julianna was her
husband's niece. She did some investigating and discovered Julianna
had married a successful newspaperman and was quite well off
financially. The wheels started turning in the old lady's head. Her
daughter, Yolanda, was not nearly as pretty as Julianna, but she
could pass as her sister. Better yet, her twin sister.

Rick arranged for Yolanda to stay in a suite in The
Merryweather. Julianna was slightly skeptical about the
relationship, but she was willing to give the woman the benefit of
the doubt. After Rick and Julianna drove Yolanda to the hotel and
made sure she was safely in the room, they left with the promise
Julianna would visit Yolanda in the morning. Once again, the photo
of the Bloom sisters seemed to come alive as Julianna past by,
sending a chill down her spine.

Watching from a pickup truck in the parking lot, a man
in his early forties waited until the couple was well out of sight.
He called the hotel and asked for Yolanda Colby's room. “What room
are you in?” he said unpleasantly. Yolanda told him and he ended
the call walking directly to her suite.

“Nice,” he said gruffly. “You can't stay here.
Call the front desk and tell them you want to move to the cabin by
the lake. I don't care what reason you give them, just do it.”

Yolanda knew better than to argue with her brother,
Vinny. She had been the target of his wrath once too often. She
immediately called the front desk. Much to her relief, the cabin was
available. They would be sending someone to move her belongings
momentarily.

“That was strange,” said Cindy, the desk clerk.

“What was strange?” replied Tracy Crowley.

“Rick and Julianna Marino checked in and paid for a
guest. She just called and asked for a cabin. Most people would
much prefer the suites. She is by herself. I know it's none of my
business, but I just found it odd.”

Tracy didn't know why, but she sensed danger. She
brushed it off as just being tired. I need to get home and relax with
Jack, she thought to herself. “I'm leaving for the day Cindy,
let's hope Ms. Colby is happy in her new room. Jack is preparing
dinner tonight which means it will be a feast. He is a much better
cook than I ever was.”

“What happened to our plan? You were suppose to stay
with her at her house. How come you let them bring you here? Can't
you do anything right?”

“What could I do, Vinny? Her husband butted right in,
he wouldn't let her ask me to stay with them. He's suspicious, I can
tell you that.”

“I'm gonna stay with you tonight. That bed looks more
comfortable than my pickup. I've got it hidden over in the vacant
lot next door.”

Yolanda reached for the telephone.

“What are you doing?” Vinny shouted.

“I'm going to call Ma,” she said.

“How stupid can you be? Do you want to get caught?
The first thing the cops will do is trace any calls from this phone.”

Yolanda walked into the bedroom and slammed the door.
She hated Vinny. He was mean to her and made her feel dumb. She
couldn't think straight when he was around. She wasn't stupid, just
afraid and that made her do stupid things. She remembered the day Ma
brought him home from the hospital. Yolanda thought having a baby to
play with would be such fun. She was wrong. Her baby brother
screamed all night and most of the day. She remembered the day
Vinny's father walked out of the house. He said he couldn't stand
the little brat and Ma could give him away like she gave away the
other kid for all he cared. That was the first time Yolanda had
heard about her cousin. She was afraid to ask Ma about the other kid
because Ma would be angry and slap her again. It wasn't until
several years later when Ma had too much bourbon and spilled the
beans about Julianna. Yolanda dreamed about meeting her cousin one
day. She thought they could be friends. Yolanda didn't have any
friends of her own. She didn't own any nice clothes like the other
girls in school. Not only did she not dress like the other girls,
Vinny was such a bully, nobody wanted to be near him or his sister.

Julianna was so beautiful. She had a handsome husband
and a nice home. Yolanda saw pictures of her children and
grandchildren. Being left at the orphanage doorstep was the best
thing that could have happened to her. Yolanda was envious. Vinny
promised Julianna wouldn't be hurt, Yolanda hoped he was telling the
truth just once in his miserable life.

Sunday, December 30, 2012

Ross looked towards the door of the old house he was
restoring. There stood the cutest little blond haired boy about
five years old.

“Hello, sport, where did you come from?”

“From my house,” he answered. “Do you live here?”

“Not yet, I'm trying to fix it up so I can live here.
What's you name young fella?”

“My name is Samuel Joseph Flynn but everybody calls me
Sammy. My grandma said not to bother you. Am I bothering you,
mister?”

“Not at all, I needed to take a break.”

“It's kinda cold in here. Don't ya think?”

“It's very cold in here, but I had to open the door to
let some fresh air in. Can you smell the paint?”

“I sure can. Did you chase the ghosts away from
here?”

“Did ghosts live here?”

“My grandma says they didn't. When I was just a
little kid I was afraid of this house but now I'm not. It isn't very
scary in here.”

Lacey walked in with some sandwiches she made at home
for the two of them. She was enjoying helping Ross with the house.
Before he changed anything, he asked her opinion. He wanted to make
sure she would like living here if she ever accepted his proposal and
married him.

“It's very nice to meet you Sammy. How would you like
a cookie? I just happen to have some in my bag.”

“I do like cookies.”

“I thought you might,” Lacey said as she pulled a
sugar cookie with blue frosting out of her bag.

“I'm sorry folks, Sammy knows better than to barge in
on you. I'm Sammy's grandmother, Mamie Flynn. We live next door,”
said a kind elderly lady.

“Mrs. Flynn, please come in.” Ross introduced
himself and Lacey. “Sammy is just fine. I needed a break and he
is a great little guy.”

“We were just about to have a bite to eat, Mrs.
Flynn,” said Lacey. “Would you and Sammy like to join us?”

“Oh that's very nice of you. Sammy has already eaten.
I won't even try to take that cookie away from him.”

“Please sit for awhile, I have a fresh pot of coffee
in the kitchen. If you don't mind drinking from Styrofoam, you are
welcome to a cup. I haven't met any of my new neighbors yet. It has
been too cold to do any work outside.”

“Please call me Mamie. It's so nice to have young
people in the neighborhood. This old house has been sitting vacant
for a couple of years now. I'm afraid Mr. Hendricks didn't keep it
up as it should have been. He was a nice old gentlemen but he was a
bit senile. His parents built this house when he was just a wee
babe. He was close to one hundred years old when he died.”

“I can see how much work you have done here. It looks
lovely. When do you think the two of you will be moving in?”

Ross smiled, “I wish it was the two of us Mamie, I
can't seem to convince Lacey that she can't live without me and she
should marry me. As soon as I finish painting, I will officially be
your next door neighbor.”

That evening, over dinner, Lacey filled Ross in on the
story of Mamie and her grandson. Mamie and her husband, Emmett had
been married almost twenty five years. They had given up on having
any children years earlier. As much as they both wanted a family, it
simply didn't happen. It was a shock to them and everyone in town
when Veronica Diane Flynn was born on the same month Mamie turned
fifty two years old.

Veronica was a pretty little girl. People who didn't
know Mamie and Emmett always commented on their sweet little
granddaughter. Veronica knew her family was not like any other in
Camden Corners. Mamie and Emmett loved their daughter very much and
treated her like a princess. She wasn't allowed to do the simplest
things all the other children did, for fear she would be hurt.

Veronica was completely unprepared when at twenty years
old, Justin Lake came into her life. It was love at first sight for
Veronica. She had never before defied her parents. Justin was a
smooth character who swept her off her feet. She fell hard for this
man of questionable morals. He introduced her to the game of pool
and the taste of hard liquor. After a few months of toying with her
affections, he left town on his motorcycle and left a brokenhearted,
pregnant Veronica behind.

Veronica cried herself to sleep every night until the
day she gave birth to Samuel Joseph Flynn. Being a mother brought
out the best in the pampered girl. She doted on her baby boy. When
the child was just beginning to walk, the doorbell rang. It was none
other than Justin Lake.

“I've missed you princess, come take a ride on my bike
with me,” said the smarmy gentleman who glanced at the little blond
boy smiling at him from behind his mother.

Veronica, again, was hypnotized by Justin Lake. She
shouted “I'll be back, Mama.”

Mamie Flynn's heart fell to the floor, she shouted for
her daughter to stop. She feared for Veronica's safety. Her
intuition proved to be correct. Just outside of town, Justin's
motorcycle hit an oil spill, the bike went off the side of the road
throwing its passengers onto the pavement, killing them both
instantly.

Emmett never recovered from his daughter's death. He
died of a fatal stroke just one month later. Mamie was heartsick.
She lost her daughter and husband. If it hadn't been for Sammy, she
may not have survived herself.

Sammy was so young, he didn't comprehend what had
happened to his only family. It took all the strength Mamie had, but
she was determined to make the best life possible for her dear
grandson.

Mamie had some health problems herself. She knew the
chances she would live to see her grandson grow into a man were slim.
She dreaded the thought of that happy young boy being a ward of the
state. Neither Mamie or Emmett had any living relatives. Every
night she prayed for a solution to her problem.

She watched as the vacant house next door began to look
like a home again. She could see a tall young man inside almost
every night repairing the walls, changing out pipes, restoring the
wiring. Almost every evening a pretty young lady joined him and
worked right along side him. Mamie didn't mean to be nosy, but she
did see them kissing quite often. She had a perfect view from her
upstairs window until the day she saw blinds and curtain rods being
installed and the windows being covered.

Sammy was fascinated with the activity in the neighbor's
house. Mamie told him not to bother the man who was working there
but he found his way to the front door while she was busy in the
kitchen, washing their supper dishes.

After meeting Ross and Lacey, Mamie was certain her
prayers had been answered. She was sorry the couple didn't have any
marriage plans, but it didn't discourage her from her own plan. She
had known Jack Crowley since he was just a little guy. She walked to
his office one afternoon while Sammy was in school.

“Mamie, how nice to see you. You are looking quite
well, what brings you to my office today?” said Jack.

“Jackie,” Mamie still called him Jackie even though
Jack was old enough to qualify for the senior discount at Denny's.
“You and I both know I am on borrowed time. I don't want my little
Sammy to be without a loving home to grow up in when I'm gone. My
plan is to name a legal guardian for him. I have a little money in
the bank and after selling the house, there should be enough to help
pay for his college education when the time comes. There is a young
fellow who bought the old Hendricks place. He and his young lady
friend have done a wonderful job restoring it. In fact, it has never
looked better. Getting back to the purpose of my visit, I have done
some checking on my own. Seems Ross McCoy, that's his name, has a
good job at the hospital. Carl Hanson thinks the world of him. He
comes from California and had a rough start in life, but seems to
have straightened himself out. He and Lacey Marino are an item,
although they have no plans to marry anytime soon. I'm hoping that
situation changes. Lacey is the daughter of Rick Marino and we both
know what a good family he comes from. Sammy has taken to Ross and
Lacey and I think they have a real affection for him too.”

“Mamie, you have given this a lot of thought. I don't
know Ross very well, but I do know Tracy thinks highly of him. He
has been staying at The Merryweather, you know. Lacey and her
sister, Erin are very nice young woman. They don't come any better
than Rick and Julianna. What does Ross think of your plan?”

“I haven't spoken to him yet, Jackie. I wanted to get
your opinion first. Of course, I would like it better if those two
were married, but maybe if they shared custody of Sammy, they would
get the idea.”

“I'm not sure you can depend on that. If you are
serious, I can draw up the papers. I hope this guardianship isn't
needed any time soon. There are many people in town who would like
to see you have a long life, Mamie.”

“Oh dear, I have already had a long life. If it
weren't for Sammy, I think I would have passed on a few years ago,
whatever youthfulness I have, I owe all to him.”

Jack hugged his old friend.

Mamie walked back home. She left a note on Ross' door
on the way back asking him and Lacey to stop by her house before he
started with his work that evening as she had a matter of importance
to discuss with them.

Ross read the note and wondered if Mamie was going to
tell him not to encourage Sammy to visit quite so often. Ross loved
having the little guy around. He never thought much about having
children before Sammy came into his life. He would abide by Mamie's
request if that was what she wanted to discuss with them.

Lacey and Ross arrived at Mamie's door. “Hello Mamie,
you asked to see us this evening?”

“Please come in, I have asked Mrs. Graves, across the
street, to watch over Sammy while we talk,” said Mamie.

“Upset me?” she replied. “Oh no, you haven't
done anything. This is a serious issue though. I don't expect you
to give me an answer tonight, but I would hope you would think about
it.”

Mamie told them of her wish that Ross and Lacey would
become legal guardians of Sammy in the event of her death or
incapacitation.

Ross was stunned. “Mamie, I don't need to think about
it. Sammy is everything I would want in a child of my own. I am
honored you would even consider entrusting his care to me. What do
you think, Lacey?”

“I hope it won't be necessary, but yes, I would be
delighted to be Sammy's legal guardian. You do realize Ross and I
are not married.”

“Yes, I am aware of that and I hope I'm around to
celebrate your nuptials one of these fine days. However, if that is
not to be, I was hoping you would share in Sammy upbringing. I have
spoken to Jackie Crowley and he will get the papers together just as
soon as I give him the go ahead. I feel much better knowing Sammy
will be taken care of if I can't do it myself.”

The young couple hugged Mamie and walked back to Ross'
house.

“Can you believe that, Lacey? I thought she was going
to say Sammy couldn't come over anymore. I don't want anything to
happen to Mamie, but I do like the thought of that little guy being
in our lives.”

“What I can't believe is that she would trust two
unmarried, childless people to care for her precious grandson. Ross
McCoy, when are you going to make an honest woman of me? It's been
at least three weeks since you have asked me to be your wife.”

Ross reached into his pocket. “I was never a boy
scout, but I am always prepared.” He got down on one knee and
said, “Lacey Marino, for the 25th time, will you do me
the honor of becoming my wife.”

“Ross McCoy. I would love to be your wife, I thought
you'd never ask,” she laughed.

The blind hadn't been drawn giving Mamie a perfect view
of Ross placing the ring on Lacey's finger. She opened her window
and shouted “It's about time! Make it a short engagement, you two
have dawdled long enough.”

The wedding was held in the chapel near the foot of the
mountain. Samuel Joseph Flynn was the ring bearer. The couple moved
into their newly renovated house. Even though the work was
completed, Sammy visited often.

Two months later, Mamie passed away in her sleep. She
died satisfied that Sammy would be loved and cared for. Little Sammy
was heartbroken over the loss of his grandmother. He moved into his
new home with Ross and Lacey and settled in with his new family. The
couple legally adopted him and he, along with the rest of the family
welcomed a baby boy into the world several months later.

Saturday, December 29, 2012

After running out of The Merryweather, Lacey realizes
she left her coat inside. She could make it home without the coat,
but her car keys were in the pocket.

I have two choices, she thought, stand out here and
freeze to death or swallow my pride and walk back in to get my coat.
She opted for the embarrassment of facing Ross McCoy again.

She didn't have to walk very far. He was standing at
the door with her coat in his hand.

“Looking for this?” he said with a grin.

“Thank you!” Lacey took the coat from him and
started back out the door when she heard him say, “You won't get
too far without these.”

“Give me my keys, Ross. This isn't funny.”

“I'll give them back if you will have one drink with
me. What have you got to lose? An hour of your time, a half hour if
you're a drinker.”

“Thirty seconds if I call security.”

“You wouldn't do that to your old friend, would you?”

“I just might. Okay, against my better judgment, I'll
have one drink with you.”

They walked back into the bar he put his hand on her
elbow, afraid she would run if he didn't. Lacey felt her knees go
weak. How can this man do this to me? I should run the other way
but I can't.

They talked for a while about the weather, about
California and how Lacey missed the ocean but was happy to be living
in Camden Corners.

“I'll be living here too, Lacey. I've accepted a job
at the hospital.”

Lacey just stared at him. “How did this come about?
Of all the places you could have gone, how did you end up in Camden
Corners?”

“Do you remember the Claussens? They owned the
drugstore near my apartment. They know you.”

“Of course, I remember them. We exchange Christmas
cards each year. How do you know them?”

“Mr. Claussen paid me a visit after you showed up at
the apartment that night. He wanted me to know what a heel I was for
hurting an innocent young girl.”

Lacey shuddered, “You and your friends must have had a
good laugh over that one.”

“No, we didn't. In fact, when he came to the door, I
was alone. Annabel and Louie were out. The girl you saw me with was
Louie's girl. I had to find a way to make you hate me and Annabel
and Louie went along with the charade. I wasn't happy about doing
that to you but I couldn't let you give up your life with your
parents and your sister. You see, I never had a family who cared
about me like you did. I had nothing to give you. At that point in
my life I had no future.”

“You seem to be doing quite well, I can tell by the
look of your suit that it didn't come off the rack at Sears. Did you
find yourself a benefactor or should I say a benefactress?”

“Actually, I did. Mr. & Mrs. Claussen to be
specific. They provided me with a home and an education. I could
never have done it without them. I was determined to be worthy of
you. Mr. Claussen is the one who encouraged me to try for the job at
Memorial Hospital. I wasn't the most qualified applicant, but I
think Mr. Claussen's recommendation was the determining factor.”

“Ross, I don't know what to say.”

“Say you will stay and have dinner with me. I owe you
at least one meal after all the cheeseburgers you bought me.”

“I'd forgotten about those greasy things. I hope you
have improved your diet since then.”

“Mrs. Claussen made sure of that.”

“They do have very good food here and I'm really
hungry. This was the first day back to school after the Christmas
break and those kids wore me out.”

It seemed everyone in town knew Lacey. The restaurant
wasn't very crowded, mainly because the weather was bad. All of the
workers in the restaurant called her by name. She saw a couple of
her students and they all spoke to her. Ross had the feeling she was
a very popular teacher. A fellow teacher called to her and asked if
they were still on for Friday night. “Yes, Hank,” she answered.
Ross knew a girl like Lacey wouldn't be sitting home alone at night,
but he still felt a pang of jealousy.

During dinner they talked about her teaching career.
They both felt the same about math. Lacey loved her teaching job.
She wanted to inspire young women to give math a chance. Most of
them had been conditioned to think it was a subject for boys only.
She loved working with the girls basketball team. They weren't the
most talented players in the area, but they did their best. Lacey
believed everyone should have a chance and even the girls who were
not five feet ten and above were welcomed to join.

“You have always been a caring person, Lacey. I think
that's what attracted me to you when we first met.”

“Ross, please don't say any more. Maybe I shouldn't
have agreed to have dinner with you. There can never be anything
between us. I hope you know that.”

“Lacey, I know I hurt you and I know I will have to
prove myself to you, but please don't shut the door on a relationship
between us. I have never forgotten you.”

“I'm sorry Ross, I can't do this. Thank you for
dinner. Good luck with the job.” She put her coat on and felt for
her keys. She was out of the restaurant and to her car before he
could see the tears streaming down her cheeks.

Luckily the snow had stopped. She didn't have to stop to
clean her car before she drove off. Ross stood in the parking lot
wanting to stop her, but he knew he couldn't. He hoped she would
come around.

Lacey's answering machine beeped at her as she entered
her apartment. Her mother was the first caller. “Call me,
whenever you get in. I want to know all about your evening. Isn't
the new, cleaned up Ross gorgeous?” Next was from her sister
wanting to know what happened tonight. The third was her mother
again, she was worried when Lacey wasn't home at 8:30 and wanted her
to call.

Lacey didn't want to talk about her evening with Ross
but knew her mother would worry if she didn't call her back. She
tried to keep it brief.

“We had dinner and talked, Mom. I won't be seeing him
again.”

“Lacey, what happened? You sound upset.”

“I never could fool you. He wants to start up again.
I just can't do it Mom. I didn't realize how much he hurt me until I
saw him again. You know I have never had a serious relationship with
a man since Ross. He has ruined my life. That sounds childish, but
it's the way I feel.”

“Do you want me to come over there, dear? Sounds like
you need a hug.”

“No, Mom, thanks. I'm tired enough to fall asleep, I
have a busy day tomorrow and need to get some rest. I'll call you
tomorrow.”

Lacey ended the call. She would call her sister in the
morning, it was getting late and she didn't want to disturb her in
case she was asleep. Thanks to the wine she'd had that evening and
the fact that she was physically drained, Lacey was able to fall
asleep quickly. She slept fitfully, dreaming of Ross McCoy. Her
mother was right. He was gorgeous.

Ross decided it was best that he not try to contact
Lacy. He concentrated on his new job at the hospital. He had much
to learn and was determined to be the best he could be. He was given
more responsibility than he'd had in his previous employment and he
was happy to have something to focus on rather than Lacey. He put in
longer hours than were required until Carl told him to ease up a bit.
He didn't want his newest staff member to burn out before summer.
“Take advantage of the fine skiing we have here, or if you prefer,
you can borrow my snowmobile. We want you to stay in Camden Corners,
Ross.”

The following Saturday, Ross rented a pair of skis and
headed to the ski resort. Growing up in New Hampshire, he wasn't a
stranger to skiing. He was introduced to snow boarding while living
in California, but found he preferred the old fashioned skis. The
air was crisp and the sun was shining brightly. Ross felt like a new
man. It had been three weeks since he'd been with Lacey. He had
tried to give her some space. She had a problem trusting men and he
knew he was responsible for that. He had just about decided he was
going to pay her a visit that afternoon when a skier whizzed past
him. He recognized the hair color immediately. His heart skipped a
beat as he realized it was Lacey. She made the mistake of turning to
look back at him and ended up hitting a patch of ice and falling
ungracefully into a snow pile.

He skied to her, concerned she may have hurt herself and
was relieved it was only her pride that suffered.

“Did you follow me?” she said harshly.

“You are the one who came down that hill after I did.
It looks, to me, like you are the one doing the following.”

“Ross McCoy. I was not chasing after you. Besides,
you obviously don't care to see me since you haven't bothered to call
me in three weeks.”

“I didn't think you wanted to see me again. The way
you ran out of The Merryweather that night, I didn't feel exactly
welcomed back into your life.”

“For someone who turned his life around, pursued an
education and became an asset to society, you certainly gave up on us
without a second thought.”

“Lacey, has anyone ever told you how exasperating you
are? I practically threw myself at you and you ran away.”

“If you really cared, you would have stopped me that
night.”

Ross had no more words to say to her. What happened to
that docile young girl he had known? As infuriating as the new Lacey
was, she was also irresistible. He cupped her face in his hands,
tilted her head toward him and kissed her soundly on the lips.

Lacey couldn't move. She had loved this man for seven
years and dreamed of this moment. Against her better judgment, she
kissed him back. They were suspended in time until they heard some
teenagers shouting and laughing as they whistled at the two of them
standing in a snow pile with their arms wrapped around each other.

“Maybe we had better get off the mountain,” said
Ross not wanting to let Lacey out of his embrace. “Shall we meet
at The Merryweather?”

Lacey was about to agree when she remembered he had a
room at The Merryweather. She didn't know if she trusted him or
herself enough to be that close to his bed.

“How about the Pub on Main? They have the best Irish
coffee. I think I could use one right about now.”

They skied together down the mountain. Lacey followed
Ross in her car to the pub.

“It's about time,” said Cal, the bartender. “The
whole town was wondering when you two would finally get together.”

“Welcome to Small Town, USA. I've heard of places
where everyone knows your business, I just didn't believe it until we
came to Camden Corners.”

“Good, lets get a booth and make out. We'll really
give them something to talk about.”

“As tempting as it sounds, Cal is the father of one of
my students and a member of the school board. I'd better be on my
best behavior,” Lacey laughed.

Ross squeezed her hand under the table. “I've bought
a house,” he said nonchalantly.

“You did? I guess you really are planning to stay.”

“I did think about leaving, but I do like the job and
the people I work with. I saw you walking into Hemingway's one day
last week. You were with another guy. I wasn't sure I could stay
here and watch you from a distance, but maybe it was better than not
seeing you at all. Anyway, this is a fixer upper over on Pine Road.
It's a big house and needs a lot of work.”

“I love that house. It's the one with the wrap around
porch. The stream goes through the back yard. I can't believe you
bought it.”

“Would you like to see it? I closed on it yesterday.
Alex Kelly is stopping by this evening. He is going to help me
evaluate what needs to be done to get it liveable again. Carl says
he's the best contractor around.”

“You are a man of many talents, I didn't realize you
were a handyman too.”

“That is one more thing I have to thank Helmut
Claussen for. He never called a repairman the whole time he owned
the drug store. He fixed everything himself. He let me help him
when I was living there and taught me everything he knew. After
graduation, I lived in an old apartment house in California. There
was always something going wrong. Mrs. Finley was a sweet old lady
who had been taken advantage of by many repairmen. She got into the
habit of asking me to make some minor repairs and before I knew it, I
was spending my weekends as her handyman. I didn't mind. I didn't
have much of a social life and I actually enjoyed the work.”

“I can't believe you didn't have a social life. I'm
sure you had to beat the women off with a stick.”

“Not quite. I never found anyone who measured up to
the one I let get away.”

Lacey looked away. “I don't believe you when you say
things like that, Ross. You never acted like you even liked me that
much. Thinking back, I was just a pest to you.”

“You forget how I grew up. I was taught at an early
age never to show any kind of emotion. You were only eighteen and I
was twenty two. Feeling what I felt for you was completely foreign
to me. I didn't realize that I was falling in love until you were
out of my life. I never stopped thinking of you and you were never a
pest. Maybe I shouldn't be honest about the way I feel. Maybe if we
took things slowly you would come to trust me.”

“That might be for the best. I have enjoyed being
with you today and I would love to see your house.”

“Just one thing,” Ross said cautiously. “That guy
I saw you with, is he someone special?”

“Yes, he's someone special to me, but he's more
special to his wife. He teaches English at the high school. He gave
me a ride to the restaurant because my car was in the shop. We were
meeting his wife and about ten other people to celebrate another
teacher's birthday. The only men in my life are friends.”

“What about Hank? I heard him ask if you were still
on for the Friday night after we had dinner.”

“We were chaperones for a tenth grade dance. That is
part of my job.”

“That's good to know.” He took her hand as they
walked out of the pub and to the house on Pine Road. The snow was
beginning to fall but neither one noticed the cold. As they walked
up the steps of the porch, a board gave way causing them both to lose
their balance. Ross caught Lacey around the waist and they fell into
the snow at the base of the stairs.

“We have to stop meeting like this,” Ross laughed as
he took her in his arms once again.

Friday, December 28, 2012

“Good morning, Holly,” Tracy said poking her head in
Holly's office. “You look lost in thought.”

“Good morning, Tracy,” she replied. “I'm feeling
a sense of sadness this morning. I guess the excitement of the new
millennium has worn off. I saw the crew taking down the Christmas
decorations and began to think of all those we have lost in the last
couple of years. Aggie's passing has hit everyone hard. She was
always so full of life, I guess we thought she would go on forever.”

“I know how you feel. It's been two months and I
still look for her when we visit Melanie and Joe. She is with Hap
now. Isn't it wonderful they had so many years together after being
alone for so long?”

“Same with Lily and Lester Hemingway. Remember when
Lester came to town and made himself at home in the old Penderghast
house? Everyone thought he was just an eccentric old man. Look at
the contribution he made to Camden Corners. Hemingway's is always a
busy restaurant and it will keep Lester's memory alive for years to
come. Lily was always stronger than anyone ever gave her credit for.
I think it was because of her that Lester lived well into his 90s.
He seemed to give up after Lily died. Have I succeeded in making you
sad too?” laughed Tracy.

“I guess I am a little melancholy now. We do have new
lives to celebrate. How is your new grandson? A Christmas baby for
Mark and Robin.”

“Andrew Jack Crowley is wonderful. I am always
amazed at the size of newborn babies. Grampa Jack can't get enough
of him. He just stares at his grandson. He's a good baby so far. I
hope Kelli's little guy is doing better. I understand he is
suffering with his new teeth coming in.”

“He's better today,” replied Holly. “Can you
believe we are talking about our grandchildren? Seems like only
yesterday we were suffering through teething problems and diaper rash
for our children. Where have the years gone?”

“Good morning, ladies,” came the booming voice of
Donna Grant. “I trust you behaved yourselves on New Year's Eve.”

“We did, Donna. How was your New Year's celebration?”

“Mr. Penelope and I had a wonderful time watching the
ball drop.”

“That poor cat, you are going to confuse him with that
name.”

“He's used to it. When he looked at me with those big
sad eyes at the animal shelter, I told him if he came home with me he
would be called Penelope. He meowed in agreement. He knew if he
wanted to be called Ralph or Butch, he was out of luck.”

Holly and Tracy laughed. As far as either of them knew,
Donna had never been on a date with a man. She seemed content to be
at home with her cat. Mr. Penelope was the third cat she'd adopted
since moving to Camden Corners. Tracy and Holly mourned along with
her when she lost each one of her best friends. Donna excelled at
her job and was compensated well for her services. They knew she was
reaching retirement age, but she assured them she would be there
until the day they carted her off the premises.

“A young man checked in last evening. He is having
breakfast now. He asked the desk clerk if she knew anyone named
Lacey Marino. The girl fibbed, said she didn't know Lacey and gave
me the fellow's name in case we want to follow up.”

“Julianna will be by in a little while. She is going
to be taking photos to add to our website. I'll check with her to
see if she knows the man. School started back today and I'm sure
Lacey is teaching.”

Ross McCoy was sitting alone at a table near the window.
He hadn't lived in an area with snow for several years and was
enjoying watching it pile up on the grounds outside. He had come a
long way from that arrogant kid he was at twenty two. He would never
forget the day Mr. Helmut Claussen knocked on the door to his
apartment.

He recognized the old geezer from the drugstore a few
doors away. He started in right away about how Ross had broken a
young girl's heart. She was much too young for him and he should
never have started up with her in the first place. He tried to
explain the kid just hung around him and he couldn't get rid of her.
When she showed up at his doorstep with a suitcase in her hand, he
knew things had gone too far. He did the only thing he could think
of at the time. He made her think he and Anabel were together.

Mr. Claussen seemed to calm down after that. He told
him he had done the right thing. He was proud of him for not taking
advantage of the girl because she probably would have done anything
he asked her to do.

Ross felt comfortable with the old guy. He asked Ross
what he did to earn a living. Ross said he was learning to be a
mechanic. He never had any formal training but seemed to have a
knack for it. He was learning the trade from his boss.

It turned out Mr. Claussen was a teacher in the old
country. He came to America for a fresh start and because he didn't
speak English at the time, he was not able to continue teaching. He
and Berta bought the drugstore with the last of their savings. He
never went back to teaching, but he continued his interest in young
people and their education.

“I always liked math in high school,” Ross told the
old guy when he learned the subject Mr. Claussen taught. “Mr.
Willard, my boss at the garage, likes me to check his figures at the
end of the month. He talks about putting me in charge of the books
one day. I think I'd like that.”

“Young man, why don't you go to school and become an
accountant if you think you would like that line of work?”

“I have barely enough money to pay my share of the
apartment. I have checked into the cost of college. Even community
colleges are too much for my finances.”

“Would you allow me to make some inquiries? I think I
may be able to figure a way for you to continue your education.”

Two days later, Mr. Claussen showed up at Ross' door
again, this time with a stack of papers. “I have papers here for
you to fill out and send to the college. Scholarship applications
and grant applications. You do this, and I will advance you the
money for the rest of your tuition.”

“Mr. Claussen, I can't let you do that, I am a
stranger to you.”

“Nonsense, you are a boy who had some tough breaks. I
am a man who owes my new country a debt of gratitude. If I can help
a young person to improve himself, I will be a happy man.”

Mr. Claussen had a way of encouraging people to tell him
their life story. Ross had been on his own since the day he'd
graduated from high school. He came from a cold, indifferent family.
His parents were divorced and he was shuttled back and forth
between the two homes. He hadn't spoken to either of them since the
day he left four years before. Mr. Claussen could see the good in
the boy and could tell he was too smart to waste his life playing
pool and drinking beer with his friends.

Ross was able to begin classes that same August. By
December, Annabel moved into the apartment and was expecting a baby.
Ross moved into the spare bedroom in the Claussen's home above the
drug store. Ross didn't know how he was ever going to pay the
Claussen's back for their generosity. Berta told him to do well in
school, stay out of trouble and someday find Lacey Marino. She
wouldn't be surprised if Lacey still dreamed of her prince charming
in the form of Ross McCoy.

Seven years later, after four years of school and three
years working in the accounting department of a hospital, Ross was
sitting in the coffee shop of a resort in Camden Corners, watching
the snow fall. He had a 10:00 appointment with the financial officer
of Shane Howard Memorial Hospital. His friend, Helmut Claussen
arranged for an interview at the hospital that just happened to be
located in Camden Corners, New York.

His appointment was still an hour away. He had rented a
car the night before. He decided, since he wasn't used to driving
in snow, he'd better give himself enough time. He could wait at the
hospital just as easily as waiting here.

He drove without a problem to the hospital. He was
surprised when he saw the facility. It was much larger than he
expected a small town hospital to be. He found his way to the
executive offices and gave his name to the receptionist. “I'm
early, I know,” he said. “I was afraid I might get stuck in the
snow and didn't want to take a chance being late.”

“Call me Carl, I'm glad you were able to make it
through the snow, I'm sure you aren't accustomed to snow after living
in California. My earlier appointment canceled because of it. Come
into my office where we can chat.”

Ross followed Carl into his office and sat across at the
small conference table.

“I'm going to be honest with you, you are one of three
final candidates for the position. You don't have as much experience
as the other two. However, that is not the deciding factor. I have
received several letters of recommendation. Is Mr. Helmut Claussen a
relative of yours?”

Ross smiled, “Believe me, Mr. Claussen is not like any
relative I ever had. He is a kind old gentleman who took me under
his wing. If it weren't for him and his wife Berta, I guarantee I
would not be sitting in this chair today.”

Ross gave Carl a brief history of his relationship with
the Claussens. He detailed his position at the hospital in
California. He told Carl he had no qualms about moving east. He
grew up in a small town in New Hampshire and actually had missed the
change of seasons while living in California.

Carl told Ross a decision would be made by the end of
the day and he would be notified. The men parted and Ross walked out
to find his rental car covered with fresh snow. He thought the
interview went well, but knew his lack of experience was not a plus
for him to be selected for the position.

As promised, Julianna stopped by The Merryweather with
her photography equipment. She snapped away at every nook and cranny
of the lobby. She loved photography and had a small studio in the
center of town. She worked by appointment only which left her plenty
of time to visit with her daughters, Lacey and Erin and Erin's little
girl, Callie. Erin was happily married to Jake Grayson, they were
expecting a brother or sister for Callie in just three months.

Julianna was caught up in her work when she heard
someone say, “Hello Mrs. Marino.” She turned around and saw a
handsome young man standing there. He looked familiar, but she
couldn't place him.

“I worked on your car in California several times.
It's been a few years, I'm Ross McCoy.”

Julianna took a second glance. Granted it had been a
few years, but she couldn't get over the transformation of the
bearded arrogant young man who broke her daughter's heart.

“Hello, Ross,” she said rather coolly. “I would
never have recognized you. How did you find your way to Camden
Corners?”

“I'm here for a job interview. I don't think I will
be accepted for the position, but I had to try. I would like very
much to see your daughter, unless you have any objections.”

“Ross, Lacey is a grown woman. She is very capable
of making her own decisions. I will tell her I ran into you. How
long do you expect to stay in town?”

“I'll be here through the weekend. Tell me, is Lacey
married or in a relationship?”

“No, there is no one special in her life. She is a
math teacher at the high school. She also coaches the girl's
basketball team and that keeps her quite busy.” To herself,
Julianna thought, 'Of course she doesn't have anyone special in her
life. She fell in love with you and you broke her heart in pieces.'
Julianna knew Lacey had never quite gotten over her first love.

“Would you give her my card? My cell phone number is
on there.”

“I'll give it to her. Ross, I want you to be honest
with me. You broke my daughter's heart once and I don't want it to
happen again. Are you married?”

“No, I'm not married. You see, Mrs. Marino, I never
got over my first love.”

Ross was sitting in front of the television set, the
evening news was on, but he wasn't paying any attention to it. He
was remembering the sweet face of Lacey Marino. If only the
Claussens had come into his life sooner. Maybe he and Lacey would be
married by now. He was attracted to her from the first time she
looked at him with those love sick eyes. He knew she had a crush on
him. He thought of her as a pest and someone to take advantage of.
She did buy him a number of cheeseburgers. He was embarrassed
thinking back to those days. He'd had a chip on his shoulder and
found it difficult to treat anyone with respect. Lacey deserved his
respect and he just trampled all over her heart. His cell phone rang
bringing him back to reality.

“Ross, Carl Hanson here. I've made my decision about
the position you applied for.”

This is it, Ross thought to himself, he's letting me
down gently.

“Ross, as I told you, your experience is far less than
other applicants we were considering. However, I think you would be
a good fit for the hospital. I'm offering you the job at that salary
we discussed when you were in my office today.”

“Thank you, Carl, I accept the offer. You can't know
how much this offer means to me. I look forward to starting the
first of the month.”

Just as Ross ended the conversation, the telephone in
his suite rang.

“Mr. McCoy, you have a visitor. Lacey Marino is here
to see you.”

His heart skipped a beat. “Please ask her to come
up.”

There was a pause on the line and then he heard a
vaguely familiar voice.

“Mr. McCoy, this is Ms. Marino. I will not join you
in your room. If you are interested in meeting me, I will be in the
bar.” He could hear the click of the receiver in his ear.

“Lacey, your hands are shaking, are you alright?”
said the desk clerk.

“I'm fine, Ellie, I just never thought I'd hear that
voice again, it brought back memories that I'd prefer to forget.”

She walked to the bar and sat down trying to calm
herself before greeting the man she never did get out of her system.

“Lacey, you look wonderful,” Ross said as he walked
toward her not knowing whether he should give her a hug or a
handshake. Seeing the look in her eye, he decided neither would be
welcome.

“Ross, I wouldn't have recognized you,” she lied.
She would know those eyes anywhere. “You have changed since our
last encounter.”

“Yes, I'm wearing a shirt.”

For seven years, Lacey tried to erase the vision of him
shirtless with his belt unbuckled. It was a very painful time in her
life and yet she couldn't seem to forget that day or the man himself.

“I'd like to explain about the last time we were
together.”

“Ross, we were never together. I was a foolish
teenager who threw myself at you. I can't even blame you because you
never encouraged me. I embarrassed myself enough. I'd rather we
didn't talk about it any more. My mother told me you were in town.
I thought if I saw you again, I'd be able to face the past without
the shame I have felt all these years.”

“Lacey, you have nothing to be ashamed of. I was the
one who acted like a jerk. Maybe I didn't encourage you, but I
certainly didn't discourage you. There is something you need to know
about the last time we saw each other.”

“I know everything I need to know. This was a
mistake.” Lacey got up to leave.

Ross caught her arm. “Don't go, please,” he
whispered. “I love you.”

Lacey was speechless. She was tempted to slap him, but
thought better of it.

“What kind of a fool do you think I am. Get out of my
way and go back to California. I never want to see you again.”

She grabbed her purse and her scarf. She practically
ran to the parking lot not even feeling the cold until she realized
she had left her keys in her coat pocket and she left her coat in the
bar.

Thursday, December 27, 2012

“Ladies, we just received the strangest request in the
mail today,” said Donna, Tracy and Holly's assistant.

“What is it Donna?” Holly asked.

“It's a letter from someone named Robin Stillman.
Seems she and her friend Leslie Butler have an aunt and uncle
respectively who are, according to their nieces, facing a lonely life
without someone special in it. Robin's aunt will be thirty on her
next birthday and Leslie's uncle is almost thirty two. They are both
college professors, one in Greensboro and the other right here in
Camden Corners. The young ladies, who are students at the
university here also, have concocted a scheme in which they pretend
to enter their relative's name in a drawing for a week at The
Merryweather in adjoining suites. They are asking if we are willing
to confirm the hoax. There is a sample of the congratulatory letter
to be sent to each of the victims.”

“I must say, Donna. We have had many strange requests
and this one is right there among them. Let me ask Jack about the
legality of sending the letter before we answer the young ladies.
I'm not sure I like being a party to such a scheme without meeting
the instigators in person. Shall we ask them to pay us a visit?”
said Tracy.

“That's a good idea,” said Holly.

“As soon as we get Jack's opinion, would you set a
time for the girls to come in?”

Jack looked over the letter and chuckled. “I don't
see anything wrong with it. Your letter shouldn't allude to the fact
that there was a contest involved. Just a note of congratulations on
being a recipient of a week at the resort will be enough. Anything
in the name of romance, huh?”

“You know you get a kick out of people finding love at
The Merryweather. It happened to us, remember?”

“How could I forget?” Jack pulled her close and
kissed her.

“Mr. Crowley, is this the way you treat all your
clients?” Tracy said in mock horror.

“Only the beautiful ones who get free legal advice,”
he laughed and kissed her again.

Robin answered the phone in the tiny apartment she
shared with her friend, Leslie.

“Hello, Ms. Grant, thank you for calling. Leslie and
I would be happy to meet with Mrs. Crowley and Mrs. Burke. Would
this afternoon be convenient? We were hoping to schedule our
relative's stay quickly, they will both be starting the new school
year very soon.”

“They will be able to meet with you at 1:30 if that is
a good time for the two of you,” replied Donna.

“We will be there. Thank you again, Ms. Grant.”

Promptly at 1:30 that afternoon, Robin and Leslie
appeared in the lobby. Tracy stepped out of her office to greet
them.

“Good afternoon, I'm Tracy Crowley, won't you come
into my office. Mrs. Burke will be along shortly, she is handling a
housekeeping problem at the moment.”

“Mrs. Crowley, I'm Robin Stillman and this is my
friend Leslie Butler. Mark said you would go along with our plan.
He said you were a pushover for romance.”

“You know my son, Mark? He's right, I am a pushover
for romance, I just didn't realize he knew that about me.”

“Here is Holly now.” Tracy introduced the girls.
“Why don't you tell us about your idea. We don't want to be a
party to any kind of practical joke or cruel prank.”

“Oh no, Mrs. Crowley, we wouldn't do a thing like
that. My aunt is Bonnie Stillman. Her brother is my father. Bonnie
was born after my dad left home. My grandmother died when Bonnie was
only ten years old. My dad was going to school in New Jersey. He
and my mother had only been married a year at that time. Mom and Dad
wanted to have Bonnie come live with them, but Grandfather wouldn't
hear of it. The years went by. Grandfather wouldn't let Bonnie have
friends over and never let her date a boy. She wasn't allowed to
dress like the other girls in school or wear any kind of makeup. She
has always worn her hair in a bun at the back of her head.
Grandfather passed away last year and Bonnie moved to Camden Corners
to begin her tenure with the university. She is twenty nine years
old, almost thirty and she looks older than most grandmothers. I
have gotten to know her for the first time in my life. She is a very
sweet person. She has no idea how to dress or how to make herself
attractive. Leslie, tell Mrs. Crowley and Mrs. Burke about your
uncle Richard.”

“Our stories are pretty much the same. Richard was
born a few years after my father left home. In this case, my
grandfather passed away when Richard was just a baby. My grandmother
was lost without her husband and coddled Richard through the years.
My dad tried to talk to my mother about letting Richard play with
other children, but she refused to listen. Because he sat in the
house everyday and never played ball or rode a bike with the other
kids, he developed a weight problem. That didn't help his self
esteem and he was ridiculed throughout school. My grandmother passed
on three years ago. Richard finally learned how to ride a bicycle
and rides his bike to the university in Greensboro most days. He has
slimmed down and is quite nice looking except he has a full beard and
shaggy hair. I can't figure out where he gets his clothes but I
suspect they are left over from my grandfather. He needs a complete
makeover. This is part of our plan.”

Robin spoke up. “Our plan is to tell them both we
entered them into a drawing and they won. The first phase is a
complete makeover. New hairstyles, makeup for Bonnie and a good
grooming for Richard. All new outfits. Our parents are aware of our
plan and are willing to foot the bill. Mom says Bonnie has mentioned
that she feels very frumpy with all the young girls at school but she
won't change a hair on her head. We figured if it came from an
outside source they both would be more willing to go along with it.
Even if they don't, we expect to pay for the rooms we are renting
from you.”

“It sounds like you girls have a solid plan,” said
Holly. “I can't help but wonder, if these two people do agree to
makeovers, how can you be sure they won't just stay in their rooms
for the entire week? Seems they have both lived rather reclusive
lives.”

“We did think of that. That is the reason for the
adjoining rooms,” said Leslie. “Robin and I plan to visit them
while they are here and we will just happen to run into each other.
Being best friends, of course we will open doors so that we can
chat.”

“Mark knows all this and he has offered to take all of
us for rides on his boat.”

“Mark is in on this too?” said Tracy. “I can't
believe my son has become a matchmaker. What do you think, Holly,
should we go along with the scheme?”

“I don't know, I hate to put a damper on your
enthusiasm girls. What if the plan backfires. What if one of them
falls for the other and the feeling isn't mutual. You have then
succeeded in hurting one of them and embarrassing the other.”

“We have thought of that Mrs. Burke. We think it's
worth the risk. They are two very lonely people. If there is a
chance they can be happy together, we would like to take that
chance,” said Robin.

“Why don't you just introduce them and see what
happens?”

“Our mothers have tried that, Mrs. Crowley. They are
much too shy to agree to be set up with a date. That is why we
concocted this scheme,” said Leslie.

“If Holly agrees, I will go along with the plan. I
just hope no one gets hurt.”

“It's alright with me, girls. Start the ball rolling.
Let's see what dates we have available. Most families have chosen
to rent the cabins instead of the suites during the summer. I think
we have the Watson and Bentley suites open. They are adjoining and
named after one of the most romantic couples of their time.”

“Thank you so much. Mark said you two are a couple of
neat ladies and he was right,” said Robin.

“How well do you know Mark, Robin?” asked Tracy.

“He's in a couple of my summer classes.”

“She's crazy about him, Mrs. Crowley. I think Mark
likes her too and that's why he agreed to help us.”

“I hope he does like you, Robin. You seem like a very
thoughtful young lady.”

“Thank you Mrs. Crowley,” Robin said beaming. “Mark
is going to meet us here. He thought you would say yes and he wants
to begin the final plans. He stopped by Mrs. Mackenzie's house to
see if she could recommend a hair stylist and makeup artist. I hope
he found someone who is willing to keep our secret.”

“Hi, Mom,” Mark said as he poked his head in the
door. “Great plan, isn't it? I told Robin I knew you would go
along with it.” He turned to Robin and Leslie. “Mrs. Mackenzie
gave me the name of a hair stylist. She even called her and we are
all set up for this Thursday. Her name is Bridget and she is sworn
to secrecy. Mom, do you mind if we use Donna's computer to print up
the winning notices?”

“You'd better use mine. I think Donna is using hers.”

“I'm through with my task.” said Donna from the
doorway. “I knew you would agree so I went ahead and printed a
notice from The Merryweather. It's just like your father suggested,
Mark. Maybe you'd better follow the same guidelines for the makeover
notice.”

“I certainly hope this project remains a secret,
before long everyone in town will know what's going on,” said
Holly.

“We don't have to worry, Mrs. Burke, Bonnie and
Richard are oblivious to their surroundings. They won't know what
hit them until they are bitten by the love bug,” said Leslie. “The
hard part will be convincing them to accept their prizes.”

Robin walked up the stairs to her aunt's third floor
apartment. Aunt Bonnie must have chosen the only gloomy building in
all of Camden Corners. Such dark hallways. I thought they'd torn
this place down years ago, she said to herself. She knocked on the
door. “Aunt Bonnie, it's Robin.”

“Hello, Robin. It is very nice to see you. You said
you have something exciting. You aren't getting married are you, I
know you have had many beaus but I didn't think there was anyone
special.”

“No, Aunt Bonnie, this isn't about me, it's about you.
I entered a contest a few weeks ago and I won first prize. It is a
complete makeover including a new wardrobe and a week's stay at The
Merryweather Resort.”

“Oh, how nice for you. I don't think you need a
makeover. You are pretty enough just as you are.”

“Thank you Aunt Bonnie. I hope you won't turn me
down. You have always been so good to me, I'll never forget the
excitement of opening the mail on my birthday and finding a crisp
bill inside the card you sent. I think it's my turn to treat you and
I'd like you to use the prize. Wouldn't you like to have a makeover
and some new clothes before you start another school year. Plus a
week at the fanciest resort this side of Buffalo. Please say yes.”

“Oh my sweet child. I couldn't accept your generous
offer.”

“Why not, Aunt Bonnie? Please let me give you
something from my heart as you have always given from yours. You
wouldn't want to hurt my feelings now, would you?”

“Your grandfather would never approve of such a
frivolous thing.”

“Maybe Grandfather wouldn't approve, but I think
Grandmother would.”

“Do you think she would? I barely remember her. I do
remember she had beautiful long hair. She would let me brush it for
her.”

“Yes, I have seen pictures. She always wore it down
or on top of her head with curls around her face. You look like her
Aunt Bonnie. She was very pretty and so are you.”

“I'm going to do it! Will you come with me for the
makeover? Oh dear, I'm so excited. I feel like Eliza Doolittle.”

“I'll pick you up at 11:30 on Thursday. We will go
shopping after and have lunch at The Merryweather, you can check in
anytime after 2:00. Oh Aunt Bonnie, I can hardly wait.”

Bonnie couldn't stop smiling for the rest of the day.

“That was easier than I thought. Mom was right,
Bonnie has been anxious to change her look, she just needed to hear
that one of her parents would approve. Mark, I never knew my
grandfather very well but I think he must have been a real jerk.”

“It's too bad Bonnie's father and Richard's mother
didn't get together. They sound like they would have made a great
pair,” said Mark. He thought of his own grandparents. He would
have to remember to tell them how glad he was to have them in his
life.

“Leslie has gone with Eric to Greensboro. She is
afraid her uncle will turn her down flat.”

Leslie knocked on the door to the house her father grew
up in. She suspected nothing had been remodeled in it since the day
her grandparents moved in.

“Leslie, how nice to see you. Is that your young man
in the car? Why don't you have him come in.”

“Maybe in a little while Uncle Richard. I want to
talk to you about something.”

She told him the story of the contest and explained how
she would like him to take advantage of it. She thought a complete
makeover would be good for him and he worked too hard during the
year. He really did need a vacation before school started again.

“Leslie, what a sweet girl to want to give me your
prize. I just might take you up on it. I have been thinking of
shaving this beard off. It really is too warm in the summer. I
notice my lip perspires when I have ridden my bicycle for any length
of time. Would you believe I have never had a vacation. I have
heard about The Merryweather. If you are sure you won't use the
prize, I will gladly take it off your hands.” He gave his niece a
bear hug. “Now, where and when do I get my makeover?”

“You have an appointment at 1:30. We will go shopping
for a new wardrobe at around 11:30. Eric has offered to come with
us. He has excellent taste in clothing. I'll ask him to come in so
you two can meet.”

Two days later, Bonnie was sitting in the hair stylist
chair watching as the hair that reached her waist was being trimmed,
shaped, highlighted and blown dry. The makeup artist came in and
showed her how to apply makeup. The transformation was remarkable.
Bonnie looked ten years younger and felt pretty for the first time in
her life. From there Robin took her to the nicest boutique in town.
As previously arranged, Melanie met them there. She had a knack for
picking out just the right outfit for any occasion and any woman.

“Bonnie, you have a lovely figure, I think you should
show it off. That tiny waistline will be the envy of your female
students. Your other attributes will be appreciated by the males in
your class.”

Bonnie blushed when she tried on a form fitting dress,
but had to admit, she looked like the photos in the magazines her
father never let her buy.

She was loaded down with packages when she crossed paths
with Professor Richard Butler. He had just walked out of the salon
and was looking at his reflection in the window. He couldn't believe
how different he looked. He had grown the beard years ago to help
cover the fullness of his face. He didn't need to cover any part of
himself up anymore. He had to admit, he looked pretty darn good.

Robin escorted Bonnie to the Watson Suite. Bonnie was
amazed at the beauty of the place. “I could get used to living in
a place like this.” She caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror.
She hardly recognized the woman staring back except for the gray
dress she was wearing. She reached for the first bag and pulled out
a short sundress in pastel yellow. “I think I'll wear this
tonight. Robin, do you think I dare go downstairs to the cocktail
lounge. I may have a glass of sherry to celebrate my new look.”

“You will look lovely, Bonnie. Let me find the lemon
colored shoes we bought to go with the dress while you change.
Instead of sherry, why not try a glass of wine. I think you will
enjoy that more.”

“Aren't you too young to drink alcoholic?”

“A couple of years but Dad lets me have a little wine
once in awhile at home.”

Bonnie walked out of the bedroom. Robin had to blink
back the tears.

“Bonnie you look wonderful.”

“I do, don't I?” she said innocently. “I feel
wonderful and it's all thanks to you.”

At the same time, Richard was dressing in his new
slacks, shirt and sport coat. He had to admit, he looked much better
than he looked just this morning. He walked out of the bedroom.
Leslie and Eric were waiting for him.

“Uncle Richard, you look gorgeous,” Leslie said

“Nobody would ever guess you are over thirty, sir,”
said Eric.

“Thank you, I think, Eric. Leslie dear, are we
meeting the young lady in the bar?”

“What young lady?”

“The young lady you got me all gussied up for. You
don't think I bought that story of you winning a makeover, do you?
Nobody your age enters a contest where the top prize is a makeover.”

“And we thought we were being so clever. It's almost
time to meet them. Shall we adjourn to the bar. Wish we could toast
your new look that will have to wait a couple of years. By then you
and Bonnie will be celebrating your second anniversary.”

Richard heard the door open next door. He stopped and
stared at the young woman who was walking into the hallway. She
turned around and saw him looking at her.

“Hello,” she said in a whisper.

“Good evening,” he replied.

“Robin, are you going to introduce me to my date?”

“Aunt Bonnie, how did you know?”

“Your mother has been trying to get me to come out of
my shell for years. You are your mother's daughter. I just wondered
how far you would take your little scheme.”

“Your niece?” asked Richard.

“Yes, and this must be your niece,” replied Bonnie.

“Nice girls, aren't they? How do you do, I'm Richard
Butler.”

“It's very nice to meet you, Richard. My name is
Bonnie Stillman.”

Richard took her arm. “May I buy you a drink? I
believe the bartender is waiting for us.”

“I would like that very much.”

They were married three weeks later. They spent their
honeymoon at The Merryweather in only one suite and it wasn't
adjoining any other room.

Richard never grew another beard and Bonnie never bought
another gray dress. Richard sold the big house in Greensboro and
transferred to the university in Camden Corners. The couple bought a
new house built just east of the Rossi Vineyards. There were big
windows in every room with plenty of sunlight shining in and plenty
of bedrooms for the five children who came along in quick succession.